Vocal residents make their mark

THE people of Emerald had their say on the future of the town on Saturday at a ‘speak out’ forum.
Townspeople flocked to the community house to join in and be part of the Emerald Speak Out forum, which is the first of many activities to help build the town’s strategy.
More than 150 people made their opinions heard as they moved around the myriad of interactive forums available at the community house.
Cardinia Shire Ranges Ward councillor Graeme Legge said it was great to see so many people taking part in a unique opportunity to have their say on the future needs of the town.
Emerald Speak Out was an important part of the community consultation process which will be integral in building the Emerald township strategy.
Declan Warburton of Emerald was one of many to make their mark on the wall of hands, which was a piece of fabric that people were invited to put their hand print on.
Declan said he would like to see the council build a playground next to the new library.
Feedback forms were collected on the day with more than 80 per cent of people saying they felt the forum was worthwhile.
The council will provide more opportunities for people to become involved in the building of the town strategy over the next couple of months.